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Jalen Hurts Will Be Repalaced?

Do the Eagles Need a New Quarterback? Why Protection, Scheme, and Jalen Hurts Still Hold the Key

As the Philadelphia Eagles gear up for the new NFL season, expectations are sky-high. Yet, after a turbulent 2024 campaign, a lingering question has emerged among fans and analysts: Do the Eagles need a new quarterback — or is Jalen Hurts still the right guy to lead this team?

A Talented but Vulnerable Dual-Threat QB

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Jalen Hurts has consistently proven to be one of the NFL’s most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks. In 2024, he threw for over 3,600 yards and accounted for 28 total touchdowns. He remains a game-changer, capable of extending plays and turning nothing into highlight moments.

However, he was also sacked 42 times — the most in his career — raising concerns about his long-term durability and whether his play style is sustainable. His tendency to hold onto the ball and create off-schedule plays puts him at risk of taking hits that could shorten his prime.

Is the Offensive Line Still Elite?

Philadelphia’s offensive line has long been considered one of the league’s best. Veterans like Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata are still anchors, but the retirement of legendary center Jason Kelce leaves a massive leadership and communication gap.

Cam Jurgens is expected to step into Kelce’s role, and while he has the tools, it’s uncertain how quickly he can become a reliable replacement. The Eagles still boast quality starters like Landon Dickerson and Tyler Steen, but chemistry, timing, and depth will be tested early.

Scheme May Matter More Than Ever

Enter new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, who brings a reputation for creativity and fast-paced play-calling. His offensive system — which features heavy pre-snap motion and quick throws — could be a lifeline for Hurts.

Additionally, the arrival of star running back Saquon Barkley gives the offense a dangerous balance. A more even mix of run and pass could take pressure off Hurts, reduce unnecessary hits, and open up big-play opportunities.

Hurts Must Evolve, Too

Eagles QB Jalen Hurts makes major life announcement - pennlive.com

While coaching and protection matter, Hurts also has a responsibility to evolve. He must be smarter in avoiding hits, learn to slide earlier, and use checkdowns more frequently. Small adjustments could make a huge difference in longevity and efficiency.

With weapons like A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and a solid tight end group, Hurts has the tools to succeed — if he can adapt and improve his decision-making under pressure.

Final Take: Talent Isn’t the Issue — Timing Is

So, do the Eagles need a new quarterback? Right now, the answer is no — but that could change quickly if Hurts doesn’t take the next step.

Philadelphia’s path back to NFC dominance and Super Bowl contention depends on three things: improved pass protection, smart playcalling from Moore, and growth from Hurts himself. If all three align, there’s no reason Hurts can’t lead this team to glory.

But if he regresses or remains injury-prone, that question may stop being theoretical — and start becoming a front-office priority.

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Coach Mike Tomlin Remove 3 Players for Missing Practice
Pittsburgh, PA — September 18, 2025 — Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has made a bold disciplinary move, benching three key players—cornerback Joey Porter Jr., outside linebacker Alex Highsmith, and safety DeShon Elliott—for missing Wednesday’s practice as the team prepares for a critical Week 3 matchup against the New England Patriots. The decision comes as the Steelers, sitting at 1-1 after a 31-17 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, grapple with a rash of injuries and mounting pressure to stabilize their roster. The trio’s absence from practice on September 17 stemmed from injuries: Porter Jr. is nursing a hamstring issue, Highsmith is sidelined with a high ankle sprain, and Elliott is recovering from an MCL sprain. All three missed the Seahawks game, where Pittsburgh’s defense struggled, allowing 117 rushing yards to Kenneth Walker III, including a game-sealing touchdown. Tomlin, known for his no-nonsense approach, reportedly views their failure to attend practice, even if injury-related, as a breach of team standards during a pivotal week. “We’re in a tough spot, but accountability comes first,” Tomlin said in a press conference. “If you’re not on the field preparing with your teammates, you’re not playing. We need everyone locked in to turn this around.” The move underscores Tomlin’s emphasis on discipline as the Steelers face a Patriots team that racked up 122 rushing yards in their Week 2 win over Miami. Porter Jr., a rising star in the secondary, missed his second straight game in Week 2 due to his hamstring injury. Highsmith, a key pass rusher, suffered his ankle sprain in the first quarter against Seattle and has a history of soft tissue injuries, including a groin issue in 2024. Elliott’s MCL sprain, sustained during a tackle attempt, has kept him off the field, with a potential return targeted for Week 4. The decision to bench them has sparked debate, especially with the team already thin at key positions due to injuries to linebacker Patrick Queen (ribs) and rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (knee), though both returned to practice this week. The Steelers have taken steps to bolster their roster, signing veteran linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley and safety Jabrill Peppers to the practice squad. Bentley, who rejected a $6 million offer from the Los Angeles Chargers, could see an elevated role if Queen remains limited. Fans on X are divided, with some praising Tomlin’s tough stance—“This is the Steeler way!”—while others worry it risks further depleting an injury-ravaged defense. As Pittsburgh aims to shore up its run defense and avoid a 1-2 start in the competitive AFC North, Tomlin’s disciplinary action sends a clear message: no player is above the team’s standards. Whether this gamble galvanizes the roster or exacerbates their struggles will be evident Sunday at Gillette Stadium.